Hey there! If you are new to the essential oil world, chances are you have heard of patchouli essential oil. The oil has been used for centuries now and is greatly valued because of its deep, earthy smell. However, patchouli is much more than just a distinctive aroma. In this post, we are going to look at everything you need to know about patchouli essential oil as well as how best you can use it in a massage session. Ready? Let’s get started!

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What is Patchouli Essential Oil?

Patchouli oil is derived from a large bushy herb that gained popularity in the 1960s and early ’70s. It comes to us from Southeast Asia, where it is commonly found in countries such as India, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The oil, extracted from steam distillation of the bark or cured wood, captures its aromatic and therapeutic benefits.

Patchouli has a very unique fragrance. An earthy, musky, and sweet note, it is often found in perfumery and incense. But patchouli oil is not just good for the smell; it comes with a collection of benefits that can help your body and mind sense much better too.

Patchouli Essential Oil Benefits

Ease of Relaxation and Stress Relief Probably the number one reason I love patchouli oil is for its relaxation properties. If you have had a long day at work or feel overwhelmed, patchouli will help to relax and de-stress. It will help ground and get out of your head, calming you and creating a soothing feeling.
Skin Care: Patchouli oil is legendary in skin care. It is used to treat a variety of skin problems, including dryness, acne, and even signs of aging. Not only that, but, in addition to its numbing effect on the skin, it also serves as an antiseptic ointment and is perfect for soothing some dirty cuts or minor burns.
Anti-inflammatory: Soothes inflammation in the body and treats sore muscles or joint pain. Kind of like natural ibuprofen to help keep the swelling down and alleviate some pain.
Mood Booster: The same patchouli scent you wear on your skin—also in the air! Inhaling patchouli oil is anti-anxiety, an antidepressant, so think about it for your wellness routine.
An immune booster: What’s cool about the patchouli is that it can actually help to increase your immunity. It has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which are awesome because of all those no-good germs that make you sick.

Patchouli Essential Oil Massage

Now that you know why patchouli oil is an excellent ingredient, let us discuss how you can use it during a massage. Whether you´re a massage therapist or are wanting to treat yourself (or someone special), using patchouli oil can make the experience even better.

Step 1: Select Your Carrier Oil

Because essential oils are so concentrated, you should never apply them directly to your skin. Carrier oil to dilute the patchouli oil I use coconut, sweet almond, or jojoba oil as they are all light and sink into the skin well. Pick any whose you like more!

Step 2: Mix the oils

If you are giving a massage, ideally combine 5-10 drops of patchouli essential oil with two tablespoons carrier oils. Also, you can use a few drops more if you want it to smell stronger. Remember, a little of these oils go along way as they are potent!

Step 3: Set the mood

Massage Setting Dim down the lights prior to an opening massage. Turn down the lights or light a candle and put on some soft music. It’s not, but mostly about setting up a serene place that would either get you relaxed or your client to the point of relaxation. Believe me, some ambiance goes a long way!

Step 4: Start the Massage

It is massage time now! First, warm the oil mixture in your hands. Now rub your palms gently to cover them with the oil. Begin then by massaging in slow, soft strokes. Direct your attention to where you feel tightness or discomfort. You can add some patchouli oil to not only make it smell lovely but also work on those stressed muscles of yours.

Step 5: Inhale the Good Stuff

When you massage with patchouli oil, another great advantage is that it can double as an aromatherapy treatment. Facilitate deep breathing during the massage. Take a deep breath in through your nose and an even deeper one out of it. This will help your body release further and allow the wonderful calming aroma of patchouli to really do its thing.

Step 6: Take Your Time

There’s no need to rush. Go at your own pace and enjoy the journey. If you get any benefits but still patchouli oil massage, it should be upon relaxation, which makes the generated mind fresh around its surroundings by refresh. It is not only the physical touching; it involves experience of and connection with all its medicinal properties also.

Patchouli Essential Oil Uses and Ideas

Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before massaging with Patchouli essential oil. Put a little of the oil and water mixture on your inner forearm at night undiluted—without washing it off, 24 hours later. There is a rare chance that some people are possibly sensitive to essential oils.
Never Apply Undiluted: I know, you have read, but never apply patchouli essential oil neat. It is potent, and using it straight may irritate or burn your skin.
Keep Properly: Store your patchouli oil in a cool, dark area. Heat, light, and moisture can cause essential oils to break down or go rancid; proper storage will prevent this degradation.
Try Blends: Patchouli oil blends with various essential oils, including lavender, bergamot, and sandalwood. So feel free to try out different combinations and mix a blend that you will enjoy.
Consistency is Key: If you want to get the most out of patchouli oil, it all comes down to consistency. Using it on a regular basis will also ensure that you begin to see the full range of its benefits, including greater mental focus and clarity if you use aromatherapy for relaxation or rejuvenation; healthier-looking skin if using essential oils in your skincare routine; and a better mood.

Common Questions About Patchouli Essential Oil

A: Is it safe for pregnant women to use patchouli oil?
A: Never! Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their caregiver before using any essential oils, including patchouli. Not all oils are recommended in pregnancy.
Q: Is It Safe To Consume Patchouli Oil?
A: No, you should never put patchouli oil in your mouth. It is intended for external use and aromatherapy only. Avoid contact with your mouth and eyes, and keep it away from kids.
Is there a limit to the number of times I can use patchouli oil in one massage?
Answer: You can use patchouli oil in a massage every time you want, and your skin is happy with it. As always, use the oil diluted as we suggested and take note of what happens to your skin and body.
Q: What does patchouli oil smell like?
Patchouli oil is earthy, musky, and somewhat sweet in aroma. It is a love-it-or-hate type of fragrance, as some may find it slightly overpowering. Begin with just a small amount of it if you have not utilized this previously to see how much you like the odor.

Wrapping It Up

That is why it can be a great second choice to add in case you are going to use patchouli essential oil for your massages.

From its soothing capabilities to skin boosters, there are a lot of lovable traits about this earthy oil. And whether or not patchouli oil is brand new to you, maybe this guide has helped you feel better about it and is now even more ready for the next time. So you know, try some of the grounding and calming patchouli in your life.